Huntington Beach State Park
add photos5 Reviews for Huntington Beach State Park
28
23
'11
1 family found this helpful
"Stunning beach and wildlife, perfect for photographers, birdwatchers and beachgoers"
Our trip to Huntington Beach State Park in March 2010 was the best part of our vacation to the Myrtle Beach area. We ended up returning during the summer. I'll include tips for visiting in the winter and summer.
Visiting in winter (or average temps below 55 degrees). This is an ideal time to visit the Park because the alligators, who are not restricted to certain areas!, are in a type of hibernation stage. They are very still and not easily agitated (even by my youngest child screaming to the top of his lungs). We saw several alligators and many other types of wildlife including weasels, fish and birds. The tide was out when we visited during the winter. It was an excellent time to watch the pelicans, sandpipers and herons fish for oysters and other small fish. We were able to get some amazing pictures. It was too chilly to visit the beach, but we had a lovely time walking around the park.
In the summer time, the alligators are obviously active, so stay on the paths and sidewalks and be mindful of what is around. The old adage applies "They don't bother you if you don't bother them". Again, the birdwatching is spectacular. Migrating species return to the park. The tide was out this time, so we didn't see as many birds on the ground. The beach was gorgeous, clean and there were not many people there. We were able to take excellent pictures of our family. Late afternoon or dusk is the best time for pictures on this particular beach. Caution - do not step on the dunes that are intended to protect the beach. A park ranger can issue a $1000 fine for stepping on a dune, even during a picture!
The visitors center offers a backpack for children to borrow (it's free but must be returned) while they are at the park. The backpack includes child's binoculars and a bird guide. What a great idea, and what fun.
Bicycles are allowed and a wonderful way to tour the park. There is an old house there, built by the couple who established the park, and now owned and operated by the state. We did not tour the house as we arrived to the park too late on both occasions. There are good bathroom and changing and wash-off facilities.
***Books to read before you go***
The Burgess Bird Book by Thornton W. Burgess
The Burgess Animal Book by Thornton W. Burgess
We are a homeschool family. We love to read books that will prepare our children to experience fully the history, wildlife, culture, religion, and even architecture of our trip destinations. If you have any reading suggestions for this destination, will you send me a note with the title, author and why you love this book for this destination?
Send a Message 
Send a Compliment
It's helpful
0 families found this helpful
"nice beach"
This is the cleanest and nicest part of myrtle beach. The beach is uncrowded and you have lots of room to move around and get shells. They have nice bathrooms to change in and a picnic area and they also have a castle you can visit. This is one of the best places in my opinion to go at myrtle beach.
1 family found this helpful
"Great little beach park with a difference"
This is a little different to the other parks along the great expanses of South Carolina beaches. It does have beautiful sandy beaches but also has an interesting old house (atalaya) which looks like a fairytale castle. The house is fairly run down but kids will have fun exploring freely and without needing parents to hold them back. There is also and interesting salt marsh area, which is worth exploring and contrasts the miles of sandy beaches you have probably been enjoying in Myrtle beach etc.
1 family found this helpful
"Wonderful Beach that is not too crowded"
We were just at Huntington Beach State Park this past weekend and were very impressed with this beach! It was not overly crowned, the beach was very clean, and the sand bar made wonderful little tide pools for the kids to play in at low tide! It was so much fun watching them try to catch the fish in the pools!!
This beach is located in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina and offers not only a great beach, but alsocamping, fishing, and coastal hiking trails.
This is a beach we will absolutely be visiting again!
2 families found this helpful
"Huntington Beach State Park"
In addition to a pristine beach and the chance to see alligators up close, make sure to see Atalaya. The house looks like a castle! There is a nighttime ghost tour that’s very spooky but not too scary. A guide tells ghost stories as you tour the ruins. Bring a flashlight as it get very dark inside. This is a great place to take family photos on the beach!
What's Nearby? Hotels » Activities »
Find Hotels near Huntington Beach State Park »
Find Activities near Huntington Beach State Park »
Find Restaurants near Huntington Beach State Park »
Get the inside scoop from parents who have been there!
